Know the Threat
CSAM
What child sexual abuse material is, why it causes lasting harm, and exactly how to report it the right way.
What It Is
A Record of a Real Child’s Harm
CSAM stands for child sexual abuse material — the production, distribution, and possession of abusive images of children. Experts use this term rather than “child pornography” for a reason: every file is a permanent record of a real child being harmed, and a child can never consent to it.
It is often the end product of grooming, sextortion, or trafficking — which means recognizing those earlier patterns can stop it.
Why It’s So Devastating
The Harm Repeats
Each time an image is shared, the child is victimized again. Survivors describe living with the knowledge that the record is still out there.
It Is a Serious Crime
Possessing, making, or sharing it is a felony under federal and state law — with no exceptions.
It Has a Lead-Up
It rarely appears out of nowhere. It typically follows grooming, online exploitation, or trafficking.
Recognition Saves Children
Spotting the earlier warning signs — and reporting them — is how this is interrupted before it goes further.
Signs a Child May Be a Victim
Sudden secrecy around a device or panic about images
Fear of a specific person, online or in real life
Withdrawal, shame, depression, or self-harm
The warning signs of grooming or online exploitation appearing together
An adult or older teen who photographs a child in ways that feel “off”
Someone who insists on unusual privacy or alone time with a child
How to Report It
Do Not Investigate or Forward
Don’t save, share, or forward anything — that can itself be a crime and re-harms the child. Leave it to trained investigators.
Report to the CyberTipline
Report it immediately to the NCMEC CyberTipline, or call 911. They coordinate directly with law enforcement.
Use Take It Down
If images of a minor are online, NCMEC’s Take It Down service can help get them removed from participating platforms.
Where to Report
Important Disclaimer
This website is for informational purposes only. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency number.